By
Andrew Stackpool
Do you have a sense of adventure, team spirit and above all a
strong sense of humour and desire for fun? Are you prepared to
be ‘stretched’? Do you want to test your limits?
Then the Northsail Committee is looking for you to participate
in the annual Northsail adventurous training and personal development
program.
In particular Northsail is looking for Navy personnel, uniformed
and civilian. Their numbers have been down in recent years compared
to other parts of the organisation, due in part to the high operational
tempo.
Held over 50 days between May 30 and July 18, Northsail, the ADF’s
largest adventurous training event comprises two yachts sailing
from Sydney to Townsville and return in a series of 10 legs.
Each leg is of five days duration. One day for crew introductory
sail training, three full days of coastal sailing and a spare
day to allow for weather delays and other contingencies.
Eight people crew each yacht on each leg. Two are professionally
qualified skippers and mates; the others are volunteer crew from
the ADO. 120 crew berths are available.
According to Northsail Director, FLTLT Rob Saunders, previous
sailing experience is not necessary for crewmembers. “Northsail
does have basic criteria in that people must be reasonably fit
and be able to swim 50 metres,” he said.
“The aim of Northsail is to develop crew, individual and team
qualities that will enhance their sense of self and workplace
performance.
“We also want to improve their knowledge through practical experience
of Australia’s maritime heritage and environment and, for some,
provide an opportunity to gain recognised sailing skills. “We
are looking for people who are prepared to stretch themselves
in a demanding environment, outside their normal comfort zones.
“Above all, we want people who have a good sense of humour and
sense of fun,” FLTLT Saunders said.
Since its inception in 1992 Northsail has never had a shortage
of volunteers and the fact that some are repeat crew indicates
the program’s popularity.
Further details may be found on the Northsail website http://intranet.defence.gov.au/northsail/Applicants
who do not have intranet access, should contact Northsail’s director
of personnel, Lorraine Vahland on (02) 6265 1718. Applications
for berths must be made via the website. Maxi Island
